The Best Herbs for Respiratory Health and Allergies
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Suffering from respiratory issues or allergies? Herbs have been used for centuries to offer fast relief and provide natural nourishment for a healthier you. Allergies, colds, and other respiratory illnesses can be unpleasant, uncomfortable, and dangerous if not treated. However, many herbs can help support respiratory health and alleviate the symptoms of allergies.
Discover which herbs can help reduce inflammation, clear your airways, and defend your body against allergies.
Holy Basil
Holy basil, also known as tulasi, is a powerful herb with many health benefits. It can help reduce inflammation in the airways and boost the immune system’s defense against allergies. It is rich in volatile oils, such as eugenol and camphor, that have anti-inflammatory properties to help relieve symptoms of asthma, bronchitis, colds, and flu. To use holy basil, You can make tea with its leaves or take it as a supplement
Oregano
Oregano is an important medicinal herb with potent anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and antiseptic properties that can effectively reduce the pain, swelling, congestion, and other symptoms associated with upper respiratory infections. It also contains flavonoids that reduce allergies, effectively relieving hay fever and other seasonal allergies. Taking oregano as a tea or supplement may help kickstart your body’s immune system to fight off respiratory health ailments more quickly.
Peppermint
Peppermint is well known for its natural healing powers. It has long been used in herbal medicine to treat respiratory diseases and allergies. It contains menthol, which helps relieve the respiratory system by relieving congestion and clearing the airways. It can be taken as tea or added to food like salads, soups, or smoothies to receive its antioxidant-rich benefits. You can also use peppermint essential oil in a diffuser or steam inhalation.
Eucalyptus
Eucalyptus is well known for its ability to reduce inflammation and provide relief from allergies. Eucalyptus oil has antimicrobial, antiseptic, and expectorant properties that can help clear blocked nasal passages and lower respiratory tract infections. It also contains powerful antiviral agents that can help boost immunity, making it a great option if you’re looking to support your respiratory health naturally. You can take it as tea or use essential oil throughout your home to reap the benefits. Also, you can steam using the eucalyptus for fast relief.
Garlic, Ginger, Onions, and Leeks
Garlic, ginger, onions, and leeks are members of the allium family. They are some of the best herbs for respiratory health and allergies. Alliums provide powerful antioxidant properties that can help reduce inflammation in the body, leading to improved respiratory health. They also boost immunity by increasing immune cells, which is so important during allergy season. Eating a diet rich in garlic, ginger, onions, and leeks can help reduce allergies naturally. They can be added to meals or eaten raw to help boost the immune system and prevent respiratory infections.
Echinacea
Echinacea is another popular herb used for centuries to support the immune system and treat respiratory infections. It contains compounds that stimulate the production of white blood cells, which help fight off infections. Echinacea can be taken in supplement form or as a tea. You can take echinacea supplements or make tea with echinacea leaves.
Licorice Root
Native to southern Europe and Asia, licorice roots have been considered one of the world’s oldest herbal medicines. It is a traditional herb used for centuries to treat respiratory and other illnesses. It contains compounds like Glycyrrhizin that help reduce inflammation in the respiratory system and can also help soothe coughs. Licorice root can be taken in supplement form or as a tea.
Turmeric
Besides being a spice, turmeric is a herb with many health benefits, including respiratory health. It contains compounds that help reduce inflammation in the respiratory system and can also help support the immune system. Turmeric can be added to food or taken in supplement form. You can also take turmeric-ginger tea or shots to boost your immunity.
Thyme
For centuries, thyme has been used as an herb for treating respiratory illnesses. This herb is quite effective because it contains anti-inflammatory compounds and can fight off infections. If you’re struggling with a cough or sore throat, it’s worth trying thyme tea. The tea made from thyme herb can help alleviate your symptoms and make you feel better. So, next time you’re under the weather, consider reaching for a cup of thyme tea!
Mullein
Mullein is an herb that has been used for a long time to treat respiratory illnesses like asthma, coughs, congestion, and bronchitis. It contains compounds such as saponins and phenylethanoids that help soothe coughs and reduce inflammation in the respiratory system. You can make tea with mullein leaves or use mullein tinctures or supplements.
Conclusion
There are many herbs that can help support respiratory health and alleviate the symptoms of allergies. Echinacea, ginger, licorice root, turmeric, peppermint, thyme, oregano, mullein, nettle, and garlic are all great choices for people who want to support their respiratory health naturally. The best thing about them is that they are easy to source.
It is important to note that while herbs can be helpful, they should not be used as a substitute for medical treatment. If you have a respiratory illness or allergy, it is important to consult with your healthcare provider to determine the best course of treatment for you.